An illustrative remodel light assembly for installation from a front side surface of a ceiling or wall panel, such as drywall, includes a collar inserted though and secured to a panel cutout with bendable fingers, a light housing, a light trim including a trim flange, the flange for abutting a front side surface of the panel, and a plurality of self-actuating spring clips coupled to an outer periphery of one of the light housing and light trim, the self-actuating spring clips engaging the collar. The collar provides a secure structure that lines the cutout and upon which the trim flange and self-actuating spring clips secure the light assembly.